Dr. Mashudu Tshifularo, a South African surgeon, has made history by becoming the first doctor to successfully cure deafness using 3D-printed bones for reconstructive middle ear implants. This groundbreaking surgery was performed on March 13, 2019, at the University of Pretoria and Steve Biko Academic Hospital.
Born in 1964 in the rural village of Mbahela, Venda, Tshifularo aspired to be a doctor from a young age. He completed his medical training at the University of Natal and became a professor in 1995, eventually leading the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the University of Pretoria.
During the landmark procedure, Tshifularo and his team reconstructed the bones of the inner ear—specifically the hammer, anvil, and stirrup—using 3D printing technology. The patient, a 35-year-old man who lost his hearing in a car accident, had his hearing restored after a successful operation lasting just 90 minutes.
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In addition to his medical innovations, Tshifularo is a senior pastor and an author, inspiring many with his dedication and achievements.
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